Video Safety Tip: Escaping a Submerged Vehicle

Last month, torrential rainfall in the greater Houston area flooded roadways and led to seven fatalities. All of these victims were discovered in their vehicles.

Escaping a submerged vehicle is no easy feat — especially when currents are strong. But all fleet drivers should know the basics of how to respond during such an emergency.

Of course, it’s important to avoid driving whenever heavy rains and flooding are expected, and motorists as a rule shouldn’t attempt to drive through standing water on roads and parking lots.

But sometimes even the most careful drivers find themselves in a vehicle sinking in water. Levees can break, bridges can collapse, and collisions can occur near bodies of water.

Unfortunately, the first thing many drivers do is grab the cell phone and call 9-1-1. But that’s a crucial mistake because there’s simply not enough time to wait for first responders. Another misstep is trying to open the door. The best route of escape is through the side window, and every second counts.

Back in August 2014, the Detroit area experienced widespread flooding as well. In this week’s safety tip video, Michigan State Police Trooper Joel Kuhn remembers that time and offers advice on how to get out of a submerged vehicle alive. Click on the photo or link below the headline to view the video.